America’s Retailers Roll Out 2018 Policy Priorities Ahead of President’s State of the Union Address

Coming off a Successful Year, Retail Industry Hopes to Keep up Momentum

Arlington
,
VA
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1/29/2018

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Today, the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), the trade association for today’s most recognized and innovative retailers, released its list of top policy priorities for 2018 ahead of President Trump’s annual State of the Union Address. 2017 marked a year of success for the retail industry. RILA and its members worked with Congress and the Administration to advocate for the passage of comprehensive tax reform, the preservation of swipe fee reform and the reversal of overreaching regulatory policies.

“The retail industry is the backbone of our nation’s economy, providing consumers with the goods and services they need, while also providing more than 42 million Americans with a job,” said Sandy Kennedy, president of RILA. “2017 proved to be a true success for America’s retailers and we are excited to see what the new year brings. As we look towards the future, there is still much to be done. RILA will continue to work with Congress, the Administration and lawmakers nationwide to be the voice for retail in our nation’s capital and across the country.”

RILA’s 2018 Public Policy Agenda identifies the key issue areas that are vital to help retailers move America forward. Below are the top 4 priorities for RILA and its members:

Ensure Robust Competition Throughout the Retail Industry

Empower Consumers and Drive Innovation

Promote Employee Flexibility and Mobility

Secure and Grow the Retail Global Value Chain

In 2018 RILA will, among other things, focus on helping its members navigate tax reform implementation, pursue electronic payments reform, and seek to achieve sales tax parity for brick and mortar retailers through the courts.

As retailers continue to focus on innovation, RILA will lead the charge in promoting sound policy that allows retailers to effectively communicate to their customers and keep customer data safe.

In meeting consumer expectations and the needs of an evolving workforce, retailers face several challenges. A complex system of laws, regulations, and inconsistent enforcement by government officials stifles growth and innovation. The Association will continue to work on behalf of members to support regulatory reform efforts that promote employee flexibility and enhanced consumer protection.

Finally, RILA will continue to lead the way in showcasing the benefits of investing in America’s infrastructure and expanding trade to American families. The Association will continue to educate lawmakers about the impact a potential withdrawal from NAFTA or other free trade agreements or programs will have to U.S. jobs and retail prices.

RILA is the trade association of the world's largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.